The points of issue
First UK Orbit hardcover, 1990; dust jacket priced on the flap (jacket art by Keith Scaife); copyright page reads as a first edition with no later-printing or additional-impression statement. Identification rests on the 'first published 1990' / first-impression copyright page, not a number line.
Is this the true first?
The UK Orbit hardcover (1990) is the true first, preceding the US Bantam Spectra edition (1992). The Orbit paperback followed in 1991; the 1990 hardcover holds collecting priority.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
US editions follow. Verify the Orbit imprint, the 1990 date, and a first-impression copyright page with no statement of a later printing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Use of Weapons a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First UK Orbit hardcover, 1990; dust jacket priced on the flap (jacket art by Keith Scaife); copyright page reads as a first edition with no later-printing or additional-impression statement. Identification rests on the 'first published 1990' / first-impression copyright page, not a number line.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. The UK Orbit hardcover (1990) is the true first, preceding the US Bantam Spectra edition (1992). The Orbit paperback followed in 1991; the 1990 hardcover holds collecting priority.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
US editions follow. Verify the Orbit imprint, the 1990 date, and a first-impression copyright page with no statement of a later printing.
I have a first edition of Use of Weapons — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.